The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has made its stance loud and clear: it wants to play in the Pro League, but without taking a single rupee into its own hands. PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid told a local channel in Karachi that the federation is not asking for any direct funding.
The Pro League requires a whopping PKR 700 million, but the PHF believes all payments, from event fees to player allowances, should go directly through the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB).
Now that’s a bold way to shut down any potential money mishandling debates before they even begin.
Let the PSB Handle the Finances
“We’re not after the money. We just want Pakistan to compete at the highest level,” said Mujahid during the interview.
He stressed that participation in the Pro League is crucial for the future of Pakistan hockey. Not only will it give our players much-needed exposure, but it will also help improve Pakistan’s global hockey rankings.
Instead of routing funds through the federation, Mujahid offered a solution: the PSB should directly pay the event fees, handle the logistics, and ensure players receive their daily allowances without delay.
“We don’t want to get into the money. Let the PSB book the hotels, flights, everything,” he added.
A Refreshing Focus on Players
For a sport that has struggled with both performance and perception in recent years, this approach feels different, in the best way possible.
The PHF appears focused on what actually matters: getting the national team on the field and ensuring players are taken care of.
“Our only aim is to improve the national sport and resolve players’ issues,” Mujahid said, clearly drawing a line between politics and performance.
Time Ticking on the FIH Deadline
Earlier this week, PHF President Tariq Bugti revealed that the federation has already requested an extension from the International Hockey Federation (FIH) regarding the deadline to confirm participation. The original deadline was August 12.
And here’s the twist: Pakistan got the Pro League invite after New Zealand pulled out of the competition, despite winning the Nations Cup. That opened the door for Pakistan to rejoin elite company, but the clock is ticking.
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